Djibouti Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Djibouti Stamps
Djibouti is a small nation situated in the Horn of Africa, bordering the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Its postal history is deeply rooted in its colonial past as French Somaliland and the French Territory of the Afars and the Issas, leading to early issues under French administration before achieving independence in 1977. Stamps from this period predominantly feature French inscriptions, which transitioned to bilingual French and Arabic following sovereignty. The country's strategic location has made its postal administration a key link in East African communications, maintaining its status within the Universal Postal Union.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1977 – present
- Languages:
- French, Arabic
- Currency:
- DJF
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- issuer:djibouti.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Djibouti stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Djibouti Stamp Series
Independence Issues (1977-1980s)
Early issues celebrating independence and national symbols, often featuring local wildlife, landscapes, and political figures.
Wildlife and Nature (1980s-Present)
A recurring theme showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of Djibouti, including marine life from the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
International Events and Personalities (1990s-Present)
Stamps commemorating global events, famous individuals, and international organizations, often aimed at the thematic collector market.
Djibouti Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most modern Djibouti stamps are relatively inexpensive, especially common definitive and commemorative issues. Earlier issues from the French colonial period (French Somaliland, French Territory of the Afars and the Issas) can be more valuable. Rarities exist for specific errors, varieties, or very low-print issues, particularly those from the immediate post-independence period or early colonial overprints.
How to Identify Djibouti Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Djibouti stamps:
- 1 Look for 'REPUBLIQUE DE DJIBOUTI' or 'DJIBOUTI' in French, often accompanied by Arabic script.
- 2 Post-1977 stamps will typically feature the country's name in both French and Arabic.
- 3 Early issues (pre-1977) will bear 'CÔTE FRANÇAISE DES SOMALIS' or 'TERRITOIRE FRANÇAIS DES AFARS ET DES ISSAS'.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Djibouti stamps?
Djibouti stamps are postage stamps issued by the Republic of Djibouti, a small nation in the Horn of Africa. Their postal history began under French colonial administration as French Somaliland and later the French Territory of the Afars and the Issas, before gaining independence in 1977. Stamps from Djibouti reflect its unique culture, strategic location, and natural beauty.
Are Djibouti stamps valuable?
The value of Djibouti stamps varies significantly. Most modern issues are relatively common and affordable, typically ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, earlier colonial issues (French Somaliland, French Territory of the Afars and the Issas), particularly those with overprints, errors, or low print runs, can be more valuable, sometimes reaching hundreds of dollars. Rarity depends on condition, age, and specific philatelic characteristics.
How can I identify Djibouti stamps?
Djibouti stamps can be identified by the country's name, typically 'REPUBLIQUE DE DJIBOUTI' or 'DJIBOUTI', often alongside Arabic script. Earlier colonial issues will bear 'CÔTE FRANÇAISE DES SOMALIS' or 'TERRITOIRE FRANÇAIS DES AFARS ET DES ISSAS'. For precise identification and cataloging, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized stamp catalog is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Djibouti stamps?
Djibouti stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel catalog (especially for European and former colonial issues), and the Stanley Gibbons catalog, particularly their Commonwealth & British Empire volumes for the colonial period and their world catalogs for modern issues.
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